Mohammed Al Emadi, Director General of Dubai Autism Center, has warned against the spread of “misleading claims” about so-called magical or definitive cures for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
He emphasized that promoting such ideas on social media is a “delusion”.
This delusion targets parents’ emotions and exploits their psychological and emotional vulnerabilities.
By offering false solutions in exchange for exorbitant fees—without any scientific or medical basis.
Autism Awareness Month
In special remarks made during April, which marks Autism Awareness Month, Al Emadi explained:
These misleading claims range from herbal remedies and unlicensed medications to energy sessions or detox treatments.
In some cases, they even promote conspiracy-like theories purely aimed at financial gain.
Without any regard for the child’s condition or the family’s well-being.
Even worse, some families delay proper therapeutic intervention because of these ads, which negatively affects the child’s development.
Challenges
Al Emadi, who is also a board member of the center, noted that current key challenges include:
- Shortage of specialized professionals
- Difficulty of sustaining funding for intensive programs
- Challenges in early diagnosis in certain cases
150 Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Benefit from Dubai Autism Center
Al Emadi pointed out that some parents also need emotional and financial support to cope with the diagnosis.
Highlighting the importance of community support and peer networks.
He reported that around 150 children currently benefit from the center’s services.
Through its school and clinical programs, including 60 Emirati children.
The number of beneficiaries has been steadily increasing over the past years.
Due to the rising awareness of autism and improvements in service quality.
Awareness Campaigns
He spoke about the center’s efforts to combat this issue.
By launching awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public on the nature of autism and evidence-based intervention methods.
These efforts include regular workshops and lectures for parents.
In order to familiarize them with internationally recognized strategies and warn them about the dangers of unverified practices.
Autism Spectrum Disorder is not an Illness that Needs A “Cure”.
Al Emadi emphasized the importance of collaborating with media and regulatory bodies to debunk misinformation and support policy development that prohibits deceptive advertisements exploiting people of determination.
He also stressed that autism spectrum disorder is not an illness that needs a “cure”.
But rather a neurodevelopmental condition that requires understanding, acceptance, and early specialized intervention.
This intervention should be based on individualized plans tailored to each child’s needs, with active family involvement.
He added that a lack of deep understanding of autism sometimes leads to unintentional marginalization or false judgments.
His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, may God protect him, today received Chris Wright, US Secretary of Energy, who is visiting the country as part of a regional tour of the Middle East. pic.twitter.com/qQZfVEJqLa
— UAE Voice (@uae_voiceeng) April 11, 2025
A Global Benchmark
He also spoke about the center’s vision of becoming a global benchmark in delivering comprehensive and innovative services to individuals with autism and their families.
This vision is guided by well-structured strategies set by the board, focusing on quality and sustainability.
With the aim of empowering individuals through supportive environments that ensure their independence and integration into society.
